Alabama’s New Law Enforcement Immunity Bill: A Step Toward Protection or a Setback for Accountability?

The Alabama House of Representatives recently passed HB 202, known as the Back the Blue Protection Act, expanding legal immunity for law enforcement officers. The bill shields officers from civil lawsuits unless they act "recklessly without law enforcement justification" or violate "clearly established constitutional rights." Additionally, it introduces pretrial immunity hearings, allowing for early dismissal of lawsuits against officers if their actions are deemed justified.

Supporters vs. Critics: The Debate Over HB 202

Proponents of the bill, including sponsor Rep. Rex Reynolds, a former Huntsville police chief, argue that it will bolster officer confidence in making split-second decisions and aid in recruitment and retention amid declining numbers in the profession. Supporters claim the legislation is necessary to protect officers from frivolous lawsuits and provide clarity in use-of-force cases.

However, civil rights advocates and Democratic lawmakers strongly oppose the bill, citing concerns over diminished accountability and the potential for increased police misconduct. Critics argue that the law could embolden "bad apples" within law enforcement, eroding public trust and making it more difficult to hold officers accountable.

Project Say Something’s Perspective: Who Bears the Burden?

At Project Say Something, our mission is rooted in racial justice, accountability, and community empowerment. Laws like HB 202 raise serious concerns about the impact on Black communities and other marginalized groups that are already disproportionately affected by aggressive policing and systemic injustices.

1. Lowering the Bar for Accountability

HB 202 raises the legal threshold for holding officers accountable in civil lawsuits. This change could make it even harder for victims of police violence to seek justice. If an officer’s actions do not meet the new, higher standard of “reckless” misconduct, victims may have no legal recourse, even if their rights were violated.

2. Discouraging Victims from Coming Forward

By allowing pretrial immunity hearings, the bill introduces yet another obstacle for victims seeking justice. These hearings could dismiss cases early, discouraging individuals from coming forward with legitimate claims of misconduct. This disproportionately affects Black and Brown communities, where fear of retaliation and lack of legal resources already prevent many from pursuing justice.

3. Eroding Public Trust in Law Enforcement

For years, communities of color have called for greater transparency, accountability, and reform in law enforcement. Instead of strengthening oversight mechanisms, HB 202 weakens them, making it harder to prosecute officers who abuse their power. Public trust in law enforcement is already fragile—this bill threatens to widen that divide.

Where Do We Go From Here?

We must ask: Who does this bill truly protect? While law enforcement plays a vital role in public safety, true safety must include accountability. The passage of HB 202 sends a message that police officers deserve more protection than the communities they serve, reinforcing a system that too often fails Black Alabamians.

At Project Say Something, we believe in a justice system that works for everyone, not just those in power. We will continue to advocate for police accountability, racial justice, and fair policies that prioritize community safety over unchecked immunity.

Want to take action? Contact your state representatives and demand policies that hold officers accountable without compromising justice. Join the Project Say Something email list to stay informed on how we can work together to create a more just Alabama.

Also, please consider supporting the work by donating to Project Say Something!